Pupil performs on world-famous stage

A pupil from South Walney Junior School showed her passion for performance on one of the greatest world stages when she secured a finalist spot at the prestigious Poetry By Heart competition this month.

Holly Dawes delivered a heartfelt recital of her chosen poem ‘Sick’ by Eleanor Farjeon on stage at London’s world-famous Globe Theatre, earning praise from judges, fellow participants and educators alike.

Poetry By Heart is a national poetry recitation competition that encourages young people to learn and perform poems aloud, developing their understanding of language, rhythm and expression. The event at the Globe Theatre brought together talented students from across the country for a celebration of spoken word and performance.

Deputy Headteacher Michelle Banks said Holly’s achievement to reach the finals was remarkable.

“We are incredibly proud of Holly and everything she has achieved. To be selected as a finalist in a national competition is an extraordinary honour and her dedication, confidence and love of language truly shone through in her performance. She had real stage presence.”

“At South Walney Junior School, we work hard to foster creativity and self-expression in our pupils and Holly’s success is a wonderful reflection of that. She’s been an inspiration to her peers and we hope her journey encourages other children to find their voice through poetry.”

The school, part of South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust, has enjoyed previous success in the competition and won the Poetry by Heart Special Contribution Award last year. The award recognised the school’s work over the past three years to increase the profile of poetry at the school in an inclusive way through after-school clubs and competitions.

Holly said she had loved the experience.

“Taking part in Poetry By Heart helped me feel more confident speaking in front of people. I learned how to use my voice to bring the poem to life and understand the meaning behind the words. Performing at the Globe was amazing – I’ll never forget it,” she said.

Holly was supported by MP for Barrow and Furness Michelle Scrogham in her performance at the Globe, which capped off months of hard work, memorisation and rehearsal. 

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